Cocoa powder is a dry powder made from the cocoa beans after they have been fermented, dried, roasted, and processed. It is rich in flavor and contains antioxidants, making it a popular choice for baking and making chocolate. Using cocoa powder allows you to create chocolate without needing access to whole cocoa beans, which can be difficult to find and expensive.

To make homemade chocolate with cocoa powder, you will need the following ingredients:

Cocoa Powder: 2 cups (approximately 220g)
Butter: ¾ cup (approximately 160g), softened
Sugar: ½ cup (approximately 120g), powdered sugar is preferred
Milk: ⅔ cup (approximately 150ml)
Water: 1 cup (approximately 230ml)
Flour: ¼ cup (approximately 30g)

You can also experiment with different sweeteners or add-ins like nuts, vanilla extract, or coconut oil for added flavor.

Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s important to have everything ready to go because the process is quick.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cocoa powder and softened butter. Using a spoon, mix them together until they form a paste. If your cocoa powder has larger clumps, break them down to ensure a smooth mixture.
Transfer this cocoa paste into a blender or food processor for a finer consistency.

In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a simmer over low heat.
Place the bowl with the cocoa paste over the simmering water (this is known as a double boiler). Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Gradually add in the sugar and milk, mixing well to dissolve the sugar completely.

Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the flour. This will help to thicken the chocolate and give it a nice texture.
Pour the chocolate mixture into molds of your choice—ice cube trays work well for this purpose. You can also use silicone molds for fun shapes.

Place the molds in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 6 hours to allow the chocolate to set completely.
Once firm, carefully remove the chocolate from the molds. You can use a knife to help if needed.

Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preference. If you prefer darker chocolate, reduce the sugar.
Texture Variations: For a creamier texture, consider using coconut oil or cacao butter instead of butter. This will also make the chocolate less melty at room temperature.
Flavor Additions: Get creative! Add vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, or even spices like cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a unique twist.

Making chocolate with cocoa powder is not only simple but also allows you to customize your treats to your liking. With just a few basic ingredients and some easy steps, you can create delicious homemade chocolate that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on your own. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in your homemade chocolate creation!

• 2 cups cocoa powder
• ¾ cup softened butter
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ⅔ cup milk
• 1 cup water
• ¼ cup flour
  You can also add nuts, vanilla extract, or coconut oil for extra flavor.